Jose Mourinho impressed with Anthony Martial’s attitude

Martial has primarily been utilised by his manager as a second-half substitute this season.

Anthony Martial may be struggling to hold down a spot in Manchester United’s starting XI, but his manager Jose Mourinho has been impressed by the Frenchman’s attitude and has challenged him to keep performing whenever he gets the chance to play.

“I see a great improvement in the person,” said the Red Devils manager at Friday’s pre-match press conference.

Mourinho’s United are topping the Premier League along with arch-rivals Manchester City with 13 points from five games! (Photo: AFP)

“In his mood, in his face, in his body language. If you want one word: happiness. I am very pleased with his attitude overall, which means it’s easier (for him) to play well,” Mourinho added.

Martial has made just one start in the Premier League this season, but has still managed to rack up three goals and an assist due to his superb form when coming off the bench.

Martial won and converted a penalty in United’s 4-0 win over Everton last weekend! (Photo: AFP)

In fact, it can be argued that Martial has been influential in United topping the league for his cameo appearances ensured the Red Devils beat the likes of West Ham, Swansea and Everton.

“If he starts matches, he tries to do well and if he goes on from the bench, even if it is for just 10 minutes, he tries to enjoy it and to give something extra in his time on the pitch,” the tactician added.

Martial’s (top) pace has terrorised defences this season (Photo: AFP)

Martial started in United’s mid-week game against Burton Albion in the Carabao Cup and even got a goal but with Marcus Rashford scoring a brace, it is likely that the English striker will retain his place in the starting XI for their trip to Southampton on Saturday.

Rashford and Martial have been competing for a spot on the left wing in United’s starting XI (Photo: AFP)